Wigan V Milton Keynes Dons at The DW Stadium : Match Preview

03 January 2014 12:31

FA Cup final hero Ben Watson will miss Wigan beginning the defence of their crown at home to MK Dons.

The midfielder, whose last-gasp header secured a memorable triumph over Manchester City at Wembley back in May, has a foot injury and will be a mere spectator at the DW Stadium.

Manchester United loanee Nick Powell can play, though, despite rumours suggesting his parent club could recall him. But he has been nursing a hamstring injury of late and boss Uwe Rosler has hinted at changes.

Rob Kiernan, who recently made his Latics debut under Rosler, is cup-tied while central defender Ivan Ramis has a groin injury and joins the likes of Shaun Maloney (shoulder) and club captain Gary Caldwell (hip) on the sidelines.

Dale Jennings and Jason Banton are not available for the visitors.

The on-loan wingers see their stay in Milton Keynes end on Sunday but Dons boss Karl Robinson told the media on Thursday that they have played their last games for the club and will return to Barnsley and Crystal Palace respectively.

The third-round tie will mark the end of Patrick Bamford's time at the club. The on-loan Chelsea striker is set to join Championship club Derby next week and will pull on a Dons shirt for the final time at the DW Stadium.